The Implications of High-Rate Nanomanufacturing on Society and Personal Privacy

The growing field of nanotechnology has received considerable attention as of late. The U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative has committed billions of dollars toward research on the nanoscale, and proponents of nanotechnology claim that its benefits will range from curing cancer to ending poverty...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Bulletin of science, technology & society technology & society, 2006-02, Vol.26 (1), p.38-45
Main Author: Rodrigues, Ruben
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Computer Oriented Programs
Federal Legislation
Information Technology
Legal aspects
Manufacturing
Nanotechnology
Privacy
Science and Society
Scientific research
Technological innovations
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Summary:The growing field of nanotechnology has received considerable attention as of late. The U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative has committed billions of dollars toward research on the nanoscale, and proponents of nanotechnology claim that its benefits will range from curing cancer to ending poverty. This article takes a look at the possible benefits and problems associated with the development of high-rate nanomanufacturing technologies, specifically in regards to privacy. Nanosensors, small enough to avoid detection by the naked eye and that are produced cheaply enough, could be used as tracking or listening devices. There may be useful applications of such technologies for some defense, intelligence, and medical and industrial purposes; however, widespread availability and abuse of such sensors is a cause for concern. The adequacy of existing legislation concerning technology and privacy is reviewed and possible courses of action for placating any negative effects of nanomanufacturing on personal privacy considered.
ISSN:0270-4676
1552-4183
DOI:10.1177/0270467605284346